Joe Gormley praised for laying on 'Christmas morning' moment for young teammate
Joe Gormley rightly picked up the plaudits for his performance in Cliftonville's Irish Cup semi-final win over Ards on Friday night.
The Reds talisman scored one and assisted another in the 3-0 victory as the cup holders booked their place back in May's showpiece final.
Speaking after the game Cliftonville boss Jim Magilton hailed Gormley's showing, especially one moment in particular when he teed up teenager Ryan Corrigan to tap home the game clinching third goal.
"It was an unselfish and wonderful act," said Magilton. "It was Christmas morning for Ryan by scoring into an empty net in an Irish Cup semi-final.
"It was laid on by the great Joe Gormley, that's written in the stars and he will remember that for the rest of the life thanks to Joe."
It was a professional display by the Irish Cup holders as captain Rory Hale assisted Gormley and sub Alex Parsons to kill off their Championship opponents before Corrigan's late goal.
"We were very aware of Ards' strengths and they would come into the game buoyant and confident as winning games breeds that," said Magilton.
"We talked about tempo, possession of the ball, movement and we talked about trying to be really clinical and we were sloppy at times but then we got Rory into a really great area and it's a fantastic run and a magnificent finish by Joe again.
"Ards did present problems after the break and we knew they were going to come out. They had their moments but we managed to see it out and Rory and Joe then had wonderful assists.
"Big occasions and pressure - these two stand up and enjoy it and they love it. When it matters most they enjoy it."
English (United States) ·